Xandria - Ravenheart
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Artist: XandriaEdition: Music CD
Format: Import
CD Release Date: 2007-09-24
Music Label: Drakkar
Free Music Notes for Ravenheart
Free Music Review: Give this album a spin.
Hit: 4 Stars
Xandria's second album Ravenheart reputedly won them more recognition across Europe with its release. Being that the first Xandria song I had ever heard came from this album, I find it only fair that I review it.
Xandria was discovered one day when I was on a site looking for some new music and came across their name. The site described Xandria's songs as a mix of all genres, which is true. Given that I love bands that combine multi-genres well, I gave them a listen. Naturally, I was hooked after that.
So, what is so special about Xandria, you say? Well, aside from them combining all sorts of genres, the band has a sort of charm with making their songs sound fresh without trying too hard. This is always a welcome thing, in my opinion. The instrumentals are easy on the ears, even the more rock-ish/metal types. Marco surely knows how to compose some great songs, that's for sure. Lisa's vocals are wonderful as well. She has a different range then most female singers, in that she sings slightly deeper. But, this does not take away from the music itself. Her voice is solid, she has a proper degree of control over what she sings, and it can be very soothing at times. Combine the vocals and music together and we have a winning combination - for my ears anyways.
The title track begins the album. Inspired by "The Raven" poem by Poe, it's a different take on it's content. The song itself seems to have Lisa seeking out the Ravenheart "messenger of evil" (interpreted from the poem) as she is still alone. The song itself is quite solid, as it plays out almost like a twisted fairytale, which works very well. The most interesting symbolism comes at the end, when the Raven is allegedly found. "Will I get back who I adore?" followed by the poem's "Thus spoke the Raven: Nevermore." It really makes one think: Is the song about true love, regrets, making a bad deal to get back the one you love, etc? When an artist writes a song like this, I usually enjoy trying to work out my own interpretation. Good stuff.
"The Lioness" has Lisa's vocals shift to a higher pitch on the chorus. The keyboards and guitars are add to the sense of danger portrayed in the song. A good song even though it is not the best; but not the worst either.
"Back to the River" begins with an Asian influence (slightly reminiscient of composer Yoko Kanno come to think of it - yes, this is a compliment). After the beginning, the guitars come into the picture and the the song flows taking the listener along with it. The chorus is nostalgic to me and very relaxing. Marco's backing vocals work very well here, contrasting Lisa's. I really like this one.
"Eversleeping": no review would be complete without mentioning the first Xandria song I had ever heard. I love it. Now, it's rare for me to be hooked on a band after hearing a ballad. But, this slow song is so beautiful, you really cannot help but enjoy the song. So of course, this one is favourited, since I never tire of listening to Eversleeping. I could probably play the song all day and still enjoy it.
Another favourite: "Fire of the Universe" follows "Eversleeping". We have our symphonic elements, metal, and rock influences combining to create an energized and pulsing song. The song comes alive. You'll want to get up and dance to this one. It really catches your attention.
"Some Like it Cold" is the first downside on the album. It's not a bad song; but it seems to lack some sort of...passion/emotion to it? Now usually, Xandria's songs are powerful; but this one seems to be missing that core element. It seems rather hollow.
"Answer" is my final favourite off of the album. It is hard to describe without making it sound like all the others I've referred to. Perhaps I should just say that the chorus is highly addictive.
"My Scarlet Name" is a different sort of song. Several folk influences are introduced in the beginning (possibly Celtic). It's a slow, haunting piece, even with the guitars and drums. It fits that Poe feeling that the band said influenced the darker feel to the album with the poem at the beginning.
"Snow-White" is a different sort of song. I can't really say much about it. It's nothing special and feels like a filler song. It's kind of odd.
"Black Flame" gives us those rock influences again with another chorus for us to enjoy. Lisa's voice echoes in the song adding to the empty, lonely atmosphere making up the song.
"Too Close to Breathe" - Another nice ballad, very enjoyable.
"Keep My Secret Well" is a nice finisher for the album. Solid ending for the album.
Rounding off the album is the bonus track: the music video for the Ravenheart song, which is pretty good. I wish they would have included the Eversleeping Music Video as well; but one video bonus still makes me happy.
Anyways, give this album a spin if you like multi-genre artists. Who knows? You might just find yourself hooked on Xandria's music as well.
Ravenheart Poster
With album number two, Xandria suddenly became known in the Gothic and Metal scene, for with the title track and the video which went with it the band played themselves into the hearts of many new listeners. Recorded and mixed in the Belgian studio of producer Jos? Alvarez-Brill (Wolfsheim, among others), in the months of December 2003 to February 2004, an album with many facets came into existance: Together with the producer the band tried many new things like soundtrack-like, bombastic arrangements, modern guitar riffs and rhythmic samples.Pop Music CDs
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